Arts

Cabaret Festival Review: Briefs: Close Encounters

It’s not a circus act, it’s not just a drag act, it’s not just aerials and tumbling, it’s not burlesque – it’s all of those and more!

Presented by Adelaide Festival Centre
Reviewed 9 June 2017

It’s not a circus act, it’s not just a drag act, it’s not just aerials and tumbling, it’s not burlesque – it’s all of those and more! Trying to describe the fun and professionalism of Briefs is not easy. The boys commenced with a slightly ‘Space Odyssey’ opener which, after introductions from Fez Fa’Annana, turned into an intriguing routine with fans, not the Hollywood fluffy type but more exotic feathers. This was very well executed and like the rest of the show moved very quickly to the next section.

The audience were treated to some displays of physique which included aerial tricks from more than one of the performers; the most spectacular of which was Mark ‘Captain Kidd’ Winmill! Contemporary dance from Thomas Gundry-Greenfield  (a recent SA addition to the troupe) coupled with a dance duet with Ben Lewis (I think, difficult to be sure with wigs, glasses and frocks).

An amusing routine with clocks, which was performed in rabbit ears, by Evil Hate Monkey, (again I think, because its hard to tell) and the hoop routine, in high heels, by Dallas Dellaforce was entertaining and Louis Biggs did some tricky juggling as well joining others with clubs in some clever throwing. All of these were smoothly joined together with some very quick changes and a few seductive strips (only so far).

Some of the other highlights were a chemistry lesson with colourful results and a very new take on the barbershop quartet! The famous raffle winner was treated to some pampering on stage by four very attentive males, which the young lady appeared to enjoy! The entire troupe is very attentive to their audience and the show is packed with too many items to mention individually.

This show is what the Cabaret Festival is good for, exposing audiences to new styles and fun projects. I thoroughly recommend that you grab one of the tickets and enjoy this late night show!

Reviewed by Fran Edwards
Twitter: @franeds

Rating: 5/5

Venue: Speigel Tent, Adelaide Festival Centre
Season:  9-11 June 2017
Duration: 90min
Tickets: Adult $49.90 Conc $39.90 (not suitable for under 16yo)
Bookings: https://secure.adelaidecabaretfestival.com.au/ticketing/

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